About Me

My Wine Passions

I started studying wine in the late '80's, and it has been a passion ever since. Most of my knowledge is self taught, however, I have taken a few wine courses over the years and most recently I have completed my WSET (Wine & Spirit Education Trust) Levels 1, 2 & 3 (all with distinction). I love sharing my knowledge with others and enhancing and expanding their wine experiences. I love all types of wine: red, white, rose, sparkling, fortified, and desert.; from all parts of the world; as long as it is well made. I particularly love trying wines from regions or grapes I've never tried before. I'm a true wine geek! My other big wine related passion is the the Vancouver International Wine Festival. I have been attending the festival since 1989, and have been volunteering for them since 1998. The Festival is a fantastic opportunity to try wines and grape varieties you haven't tried before (as well as renewing your acquaintance with old favourites) and the special events and seminars are great places to learn more about wine, wine making, and wine trends. You can find more info on the festival here: http://vanwinefest.ca/

Your Wine Host - Raymond

As I said, passionate and serious, but having fun while we're at it.

Wine and Art

My other passion is art. This was painted by a friend of mine while she was in the Barolo Region of northern Italy